Post: #1

Hey RVF

Just wondering if anyone has had experience training BJJ (or any other martial art) in a foreign country? And specifically, a place with a different language? I want to get back into training because I miss the fun, discipline, and confidence boost it gave my life. I trained on and off through college, competed a little, but only as a white belt. Now I'm living abroad, and I've found a few places that teach BJJ and MMA but I'm pretty sure the classes are not in English...

Post: #2

Why not take a BJJ holiday to Brazil?

Post: #3

Just go and check it out, then report back here. What's the worst that can happen to you?

Post: #4

(10-06-2014 09:11 AM)poledaddy Wrote:  Just go and check it out, then report back here. What's the worst that can happen to you?

Exactly my thoughts! Do you always ask people on line about every action you make? Go and see for yourself!

Post: #5

I took some BJJ classes in the Philippines. Best move I made on my trip there. Made friends that opened up doors for a lot of things to do in the Phils.
If there was a language barrier it may be frustrating during the teaching part. After that when you are rolling it shouldn't be a problem.... tap tap tap is pretty universal in any language.

Post: #6

You don't really need to speak the language to keep learning BJJ. In fact, NOT understanding the language can be a huge benefit because it will force you to pay attention to what the person is doing rather than what they're saying. It'll force you to think more about the principles that make a technique work. So, stop making up excuses and go train BRO!

Post: #7

The great thing about BJJ is that it's mostly visual, so language is not as important as it would be for a traditional subject like science or math.

I've trained while traveling and had really good experiences even when there were language barriers. If the instructor didn't speak English, he gave me extra attention to make sure I got the technique or set me up with someone who could translate. I find that jiujitsu practitioners are always really welcoming wherever you go.

Are you in Poland now? Poland has over 100 black belts and Poles generally speak decent English. You'd be crazy not to train there.

Post: #8

I've trained in only foreign countries but the primary language in each of these was English, so that's not helpful. Although I did train in a school in the U.S. that was primarily Brazilian and the classes were thought in 'Brazinglish'. At first it was hard to understand the instructor and the students, even though they were speaking to me in English.

The first couple of weeks were tough, not physically but the language barrier was definitely an issue. Not so much for learning techniques as its all ready been said it's a very visual experience. It was more of an issue trying to shit talk with the guys after sessions. But eventually I was able to keep up with them. And Vice Versa, Irish people aren't known for our good grammar.

Just take the plunge, you won't regret it, you'll be speaking 'Brazinglish' in no time. "That's a no good pozish"

Post: #9

I echo what creepin said exactly. Every place i go i try to find a bjj/wrestling/mma gym. Not knowing the language is never a problem and everybody is usually anxious to practice their English with you anyways.Also, bjj tends to attract a more international audience. At least someone at the gym will probably speak English

Better than just getting a workout, it is almost instantly hooks you into a social circle. As I move around my best friends are always guys I've met training.

Where do you live anyways?